Christmas, Uganda Style.

To Gulu,

One of the many things I have learned since being in Gulu is: Ugandans know how to celebrate! 

Christmas seems to be the favorite, and I am so excited! 

Stores have been decorated with tinsel and lights, Christmas music fills homes and churches. Children getting ready for all the Christmas plays, and choirs are formed for carols - it's looking a lot like Christmas. 

However, my Christmas looks very different. There will be no winter coats, no snow, and no leaving for church early because roads are covered in ice. It's strange watching Christmas movies with the girls here as its over 30 degrees outside! Other than the obvious differences between Canada and Uganda, this will be the first time in my life that I am away from my family on this day. It is going to be strange not seeing my nephews on Christmas eve, or having my Dad read Luke 1 & 2 before opening gifts and ending the day playing games with my siblings. Although this day will be different, I am excited to spend Christmas day with very close family friends. 

As I spend my Christmas in Uganda, New memories will be made! 

I have the pleasure of going to Downtown Watoto and celebrating the birth of Jesus! I am so excited to join and celebrate a new way. Christmas Cantata is one thing most Ugandas look forward to! When my friends asked if I will be here for Christmas, the next question was always "Are you going to Cantata" - well I am! Watoto Church holds an amazing program that tells the story of the First Christmas. There are some amazing dancers, singers, and actors. The costumes have been beautifully put together, the whole production is truly is beautiful! I won't give much away in case you are in Uganda to see the program... I would rather not give any surprises away!

As Christmas is a time of reflection, I take the time to look back on my 2019 year. God has done some amazing things in my life. I moved to the other side of the world to do something that was 100% out of my comfort zone. I was given a great opportunity and it was life-changing! Looking back I have grown so much and I thank God every day for sending me to Uganda! However, this is not the end... it has just started! 

This will be my last blog written in Uganda for a while, however, I will still keep you updated while back in the North!! Having said that- there will be an announcement coming in the next few weeks! To ensure you don't miss the big news, my social media is posted underneath! 

Merry Christmas!! 

                               

Until next time,

with love,

Shelre.

For more frequent updates you can check out 
Facebook: To Gulu With Love 

Instagram: @Shel_Prankard 

Twitter: @Shellprankard

If you would like to make a one-time donation or become a regular supporter for future projects, please go to:

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Click on the tab 'Give.'

click 'one time gift online.'

Click on 'mission other.'

Click on 'Shelre.'

( The two cantata pictures were taken by the Watoto photography team)